How Can Sequential Switches Create New Generative Modulation Patterns?

At first glance, a sequential switch appears to be little more than a routing utility.

Its purpose seems simple: connect several inputs… read more

How Can Shift Registers Generate Repeating Yet Unpredictable Sequences?

Few modules appear less suited to creating regular cycles than shift registers.

Yet with a small modification they become remarkably effective… read more

Can a Sequencer Function as an LFO in Generative Music?

Most musicians think of sequencers as note generators.

Yet a sequencer is fundamentally a device that outputs a repeating sequence of voltages. Viewed from this perspective,… read more

How Can Envelope Generators Create Generative Music?

When modular musicians think about cyclic modulation sources, LFOs usually come to mind first. Yet many envelope generators can become equally powerful sources of… read more

What Is the Difference Between Phase Modulation and Frequency Modulation in LFO Networks?

Phase modulation and frequency modulation are closely related concepts.

Both influence the behaviour of cyclic signals.

Both can… read more

How Does Wave Shape Modulation Affect Generative Music?

Many musicians think about modulation primarily in terms of frequency and amplitude.

Yet another parameter deserves attention: waveform shape.

Changing the shape of an… read more

How Can Amplitude Modulation Create More Interesting Generative Patches?

Amplitude modulation is often associated with audio-rate synthesis.

However, the same principle can be applied to control voltages and LFO networks.

In generative… read more

What Does "Modulating the Modulation" Mean in Modular Synthesis?

Most modular musicians eventually learn how to use an LFO to modulate a parameter.

For example:

an LFO modulates filter… read more

How Can Simple LFO Patches Become Sophisticated Generative Systems?

Many newcomers believe that sophisticated generative systems require sophisticated modules.

The opposite is often true.

Some of the most effective… read more

How Do Feedback Loops Create Complex Generative Behaviour?

Feedback is one of the most powerful concepts in both music and nature.

Whenever a system influences itself, feedback emerges.

In modular synthesis, feedback can transform simple… read more